President Bola Tinubu has ordered a thorough investigation into the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The aircraft, which was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos, crashed on Monday morning.
Tinubu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, expressed sadness over the incident and condoled with the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members on board.
The President also commiserated with the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force over the crash.
“This is a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation. Our Air Force personnel put their lives on the line every day to secure Nigeria. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Tinubu said.
According to the statement, the President had been briefed by the Chief of the Air Staff and directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately begin an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
“I have directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences,” he said.
Tinubu also commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating a search-and-rescue operation immediately after the incident.
He prayed for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and asked God to give their families and members of the Nigerian Air Force the strength to cope with the loss.
The President further assured the Nigerian Air Force of his administration’s continued support as it carries out its constitutional responsibility of protecting the country.
He also commended first responders and the Ondo State Government for their prompt response to the crash site.
